An elderly woman was targeted by criminals who rifled through her home but left empty-handed, police have said.

Officers are investigating a report of a burglary after two men entered the woman’s home in Bobbing.

The men initially claimed to be from a water company and called on the woman at her home in Keycol Hill between 2pm and 3pm on Wednesday.

They are alleged to have pushed past the victim and entered the property to search the house and then left.

One of the men is described as white, 5ft 10in with fair hair and slight facial hair. He had an English accent and was wearing a Puma jacket.

Both men left the area in an Audi estate with a registration ending in R.

Officers are now urging people to always check the ID of cold callers.

A police spokesman said: "A door chain or spy hole will help you do this without letting anyone into your home.

"Don’t be afraid to turn people away. If the person purports to be a police officer and there is any doubt, always contact Kent Police to confirm their identity."

He added: "Consider fitting extra security measures such as spy holes, door chains, door locks and intruder alarms, and make sure rear doors and windows are shut and locked when answering your front door."

Anyone who has any information should call police on 01795 419119, quoting reference XY/040092/17.To stay anonymous, contact Kent Crimestoppers on 0800 555111.